BOSS: THAT WAS TOUGH

Mick McCarthy conceded Town were well beaten by a Newcastle team that he fully expects to go on and win the Championship.

The Magpies led from a first minute goal from Ayoze Perez and never looked back, with another from Perez and a terrific finish from Matt Ritchie sealing a 3-0 win at St James’ Park.

“We never laid a glove on them really. I had set up to press them and not let them play but we conceded straight away. It was a fabulous finish and it was an uphill battle from the first minute,” the Town boss told Ipswich Player HD.

“We stayed in the game for 70 minutes but we got out of the game what we deserved really.

“They are a really good side and they played very well on the day. Perhaps they shouldn’t be in the Champioonship. I certainly haven’t seen a better side this season and I’ll be surprised if they don’t win the league.

“It was tough out there from the first minute. They were so clinical with their finishes. Real quality. We have not got near them.

“If there were positives for us, Didz [David McGoldrick] played 45 minutes and he will be better for that. I need him out there. Jonny Williams had another 10 minutes as well.”

Mick confirmed that Leon Best dislocated his finger just before half-time and Jonas Knudsen was forced off with a back injury.

Subscribers to Ipswich Player HD can watch the full interview with Mick now.